TINA WESSON
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specialtyReality TV Personality - Winner of "Survivor: The Australian Outback." bioTina Wesson won "Survivor: The Australian Outback" without ever receiving a single vote against her. The affable Wesson - described by Entertainment Weekly as "about as threatening as June Cleaver holding out a plate of warm cookies" - triumphed on the No. 1 CBS show with a combination of mental acumen, physical stamina and Southern charm. For the native of Knoxville, Tennessee, "Survivor" was just another chapter in "living a life less ordinary" - her motto. An accomplished athlete, Wesson has twice won the Tennessee state racquetball championship (most recently in 2001), and the mixed-doubles division of the state tennis championship as well as finishing third in state singles. An avid outdoor enthusiast Tina makes it a point to get out most everyday for a hike, bike, swim, run, or to play paddleball. Many of Wesson's achievements have come since her 1994 diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis. Among these accomplishments are becoming a spokesperson for the National Arthritis Foundation and completing the Ireland and Honolulu marathon for their joints in motion program A graduate from the University of Tennessee (where she was offered a swimming scholarship though she pursued other interests), Wesson became a flight attendant and then put her degree in therapeutic recreation to use in the healthcare field - including positions at a hospital and a home-healthcare agency. However, the certified nursing assistant feels her greatest reward came with her experience as a private-duty nurse for individuals with severe paralysis. Wesson was adopted at age 2, a fact that has had a profound impact on her life: She's a strong advocate of adoption and supports the rights of adopted children to their biological histories. Wesson's faith in God has underscored everything in her life. A member of the interdenominational Evangelical Free Church, she is involved in being a group leader and speaking at area churches and to other faith-based organizations. Also a member of the Outstanding Young Women of America, Wesson's compassion and zestful personality have endeared her to the millions of "Survivor" fans, who identify with her as an empathetic figure - be it mother, sister or daughter. The former stay at home mom to two college kids, Katie and Taylor, believes in balanced living, championing the underdog and, most of all, being grateful. |
